Chapter 26- “Nutrition You Will Not Find on Your Plate”
As I mentioned in the introduction, my fascination with nutrition ignited like a firecracker during our church’s Daniel Fast. The physical and mental transformations I experienced were so profound that I developed an insatiable curiosity for all things nutrition. I leaped into the digital world, scouring the internet for any nutrition classes I could find. A quick search with keywords like “nutrition” and “education” opened a buffet of options on my laptop screen, each promising to serve the secrets to better health.
One of the first things that caught my eye was a YouTube presentation by Dr. Joshua Rosenthal, the mastermind behind the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. This was not some lengthy, drawn-out lecture—just a few minutes of his time—but the impact was immediate. It was like he flipped a switch in my brain. He broke down nutrition into two categories: primary and secondary. But the big reveal was—he said “primary nutrition” is not about what is on your plate. It’s about the core elements that sustain us: relationships, purpose, movement, and spirituality.[1]
His words hit me like a ton of bricks but in the best way possible. They made so much sense that I could not resist; I signed up for certification in integrative nutrition faster than I could say, “Where do I enroll?” That tiny YouTube video became a turning point in my life, sparking an “aha” moment that still echoes in my mind today.
Relationships
I explore exercise and spirituality in chapters four and ten, respectively.
Of course, good health would include healthy relationships—why hadn’t I connected those dots before? So many diet and lifestyle programs miss this crucial piece of the puzzle. It’s not just about what you eat or how much you exercise; it’s about the intricate web of interactions we have with others, whether at home, work or in social circles.
When I reflect on the times my health journey hit a roadblock, I can often trace it back to conflicts in my relationships. Whether it was a rough patch with a girlfriend or my spouse (not at the same time, thankfully) or a challenging situation at work, I can see how these emotional battles knocked me off course. And let’s be honest; it’s a challenge to make the best food choices or stick to your exercise routine when your mind is tangled up in stress and heartache.
I’ve been a fitness enthusiast since high school, with running as my go-to method of staying fit. It was my lifeline during the craziness of young adulthood—medical school, residency, and all the other chaos that comes with pursuing a medical career. No matter how busy I got or how tight the budget was, I knew I could always lace up my running shoes and head to the park. I felt unstoppable when I was in sync with my running routine, sleep, and diet. But all it took was a relationship hiccup to throw everything off balance, sometimes for months.
Thankfully, I’ve never gone through a divorce or separation, but even after thirty-nine years of marriage, I’ve had my share of low moments. During those times, just showing up for work felt like an accomplishment, let alone keeping up with a gym routine, resting, or eating well.
We’ve all been there—relationship troubles are part of life’s package deal. But here’s the thing: letting those challenges dictate your health and well-being isn’t the answer.
First, remind yourself that emotional turmoil is temporary—it doesn’t define you or your future. If the relationship is worth saving, do what you can to mend it, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. This is where your FEARLESS journey comes into play, and sometimes, getting a health coach or therapist involved can make all the difference, especially if you’re struggling to move forward.
And sometimes, the healthiest thing you can do is distance yourself from a toxic relationship, whether it’s a friend or even a family member. Have you ever felt that wave of relief after resolving a major conflict? It’s like a weight lifted off your shoulders, and your path to better health is clear again.
This realization—that healthy relationships are just as vital to our well-being as the food we eat—has been one of the most valuable lessons on my journey. It’s not just about being FEARLESS in the face of dietary challenges but also about nurturing the connections that support us in living our best lives.
Purpose (The rest of this chapter follows)
My book is set for release on March 18th 2025. Stay tuned for pre-order details.